Lighted Power Tool With Ring LEDs for Workpiece Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power tools often operate in conditions with inadequate lighting, making it difficult for users to clearly see the workpiece, especially in substandard lighting environments.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a lighting system within the power tool, featuring a light ring and circuit assembly with LEDs, powered by a generator using a field winding and magnets, and a rotary transformer for efficient energy transfer, ensuring consistent illumination of the workpiece.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a lighting system is integrated into the power tool, then illumination intensity for the workpiece is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is integrated into the power tool housing, combining the illumination function with the existing tool structure. The light ring is positioned within the housing and aligned with the output spindle, merging multiple components into a unified assembly that provides both mechanical function and illumination without requiring separate external lighting equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The power tool is designed to perform multiple functions: the motor drives the output spindle for machining operations, the transmission provides gear reduction, and the integrated lighting system illuminates the work area. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate lighting equipment and allows the tool to operate effectively in various lighting conditions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a generator with field winding and magnets is used to power the light, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generator uses the motor's own rotational output to generate electrical power for the lighting system. The field winding and magnets are positioned to convert mechanical rotation into electrical current, allowing the system to power itself without requiring external power sources or additional energy input beyond what the motor already produces.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator components (field winding, magnets, armature) are integrated into the existing power transmission path. The field winding is coupled to rotate with motor output components, and the magnets are positioned to interact with the field winding during normal operation, merging the power generation function with the mechanical drive system.
3Volume of moving object
If the light ring is received axially between case members, then compactness is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into separate case members (first case member and second case member) that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. The light ring is positioned between these segmented housing parts, allowing for modular manufacturing and assembly while maintaining a compact overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The light ring is nested within the housing structure, specifically positioned axially between the first and second case members. This nested arrangement allows the lighting component to be integrated into the existing housing volume without increasing the overall external dimensions of the power tool.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides reliable and consistent lighting for the workpiece, enhancing visibility and usability of power tools in various lighting conditions without additional external lighting sources.
Implementation Method 1
The circuit assembly includes a light emitting element and is received in the light ring
Implementation Method 2
The generator includes a field winding and a set of magnets. The field winding is coupled for rotation with a first one of an output shaft of the motor... such that an electric current is produced in the field winding
Data Source
AI summary
An electric grinding tool includes a motor housing coupleable to an electrical power source, a motor configured to receive power from the electrical power source and including an output shaft extending along a motor axis, a handgrip coupled to and coaxial with the motor housing, a tool holder rotatably driven upon rotation of the motor, the tool holder configured to receive a shaft of a grinding accessory, and a light unit coupled to and at least partially recessed in a front end portion of the electric grinding tool. The light unit includes a plurality of lights mounted to an at least partially ring shaped printed circuit board that is received in a support ring, and a cover ring received over the lights.